Hello @careywelder, I really enjoyed reading your article. I totally hear you, how challenging it's been for you to deal with the ignorance of the programmed minds, but I'm pleased to hear that you've come a long way practicing compassion for yourself and them. It is key to realize we can only change ourselves, and by trying to force others into our way of thinking, no matter how enlightened we think it is, is only going to bring us frustration and anger. Control is not the way! Allowing, presence, compassion.. all of the goodness we wish to see more in others, we need to generate in greater measure.
I'm glad to meet you.
I also just wrote a post about my experiences and learnings from meditation, if you fancy checking it out.